Discover the Beloved “Ryukakusan” Souvenir Series! Lineup and Features Unveiled
The traditional Japanese medicinal brand Ryukakusan, boasting over 200 years of history, has become a sought-after souvenir among international tourists.
Loved by generations of Japanese people, these throat care products have retained their efficacy while evolving into various forms to meet modern needs. Their convenience—being consumable without water—and portability make them even more appealing.
In this article, we delve into the allure of the “Ryukakusan Series”, a product line rich in Japanese wisdom.
What exactly is “Ryukakusan”?
Ryukakusan is a traditional Japanese pharmaceutical brand with a history of nearly 200 years.
Formulated as a fine powder with natural ingredients such as Platycodon (Kikyo) and Apricot Kernel (Kyounin), it is primarily used to relieve coughing, phlegm, and throat discomfort.
There’s also the “Ryukakusan Direct” series which is a more modern version of Ryukakusan that is easier to take.
The Ryukakusan Direct series has a variety of flavors, such as mint and peach, to make it easier to take, without changing the shape that makes it easier to act directly on the mucous membranes of the throat. They do not contain ingredients that make people drowsy and are sugarless, making them easy to use both during the day and at night.
Ryuukakusan Direct” Series
The Ryukakusan Direct Series is a modernized version of the traditional effects of Ryukakusan.
The granule form, which can be taken without water, directly approaches the mucous membranes of the throat. It is expected to relieve throat discomfort such as coughing and sneezing.
Ryukakusan Direct comes in two flavors, mint and peach.
Mint flavor has a refreshing aftertaste.
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Peach flavor is easy to drink with a sweet aroma.
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The mint flavor offers a refreshing taste without sweetness, providing a clean and crisp sensation. The peach flavor, while subtly sweet, carries a delightful fruity aroma that masks the distinct scent typical of Ryukakusan, making it more enjoyable for those sensitive to herbal fragrances
For those who aren’t fond of powder, there’s also a mango-flavored throat lozenge option available
The lozenges are mango flavored.
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The lozenges have a subtle mango flavor, but they also have a decent menthol feel that clears the throat!
The individual packaged type makes it easy to use in various situations, such as during the day, at night, or on the go, which is probably another reason for its popularity.
Ryukakusan Throat Lozenges and Tablets Series
Two types of throat lozenges
In addition to powdered medicines, Ryukakusan also offers a series of “Clear Throat Lozenges” and “Tablets” that can be taken easily.
These products are popular in Japan because they offer the traditional benefits of Ryukakusan in an easy-to-dose candy form.
Clear Throat Lozenges is available in two flavors: the refreshing “Herbal Flavor” in a blue package, and the mild and gentle “Milk Flavor” in a gold package.
The Classic Herbal Flavor
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Golden Delight: Smooth and Sweet Milk Flavor
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If you don’t like medicinal taste, we recommend the Milk Flavor! It has a mild aroma and refreshing sensation for an Easy-to-Enjoy Experience!
In addition to lozenges, we also sell tablets with small grains that are easy to dissolve.
Easy to take tablet for daily use.
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I have tried and purchased the Herbal Flavor this time, but there are usually three flavors available.
・Herbal Flavor : A refreshing and authentic herbal taste bursting with cooling sensations.
・Honey Lemon Flavor : A perfect balance of sweet and sour.
・Matcha Herbal Flavor : A sophisticated blend of matcha and herbs for a refined taste.
Though small in size, it’s highly effective! With a stronger menthol kick than regular candy, it provides an intense throat-refreshing sensation, leaving you feeling so cool that even breathing in feels revitalizing.
Tablets Sized Like Mini Ramune Candies
The tablets are small and compact in packaging, making them ideal for carrying in a bag or pocket! So whenever you have a sore-throat, you can take it anytime without much hassle.
Where can I buy Ryukakusan?
Ryukakusan is carried in a variety of stores.
Since the Ryukakusan Direct series is a pharmaceutical product, it is basically sold at drugstores. In this case, all the products were purchased at Tsuruha Drugstore.
However, convenience stores and Don Quijote may also sell the product, as long as they have a “registered sales person,” which is required for the sale of pharmaceutical products. It is recommended to check in advance whether they are sold in stores other than drugstores.
Throat lozenges and tablet series are treated as “food” and can be purchased at supermarkets, convenience stores, and other stores close to you.
Summary
The Ryukakusan series, popular as souvenirs, offers a diverse product lineup, including direct types that can be used without water, throat lozenges, and tablets.
They are available mainly at drugstores, but also at some convenience stores and Don Quijote! Throat lozenges and tablets are also available at general supermarkets.They’re easy to take whenever you experience coughs or throat discomfort, making them a great recommendation for cold or virus-prone seasons.
Be sure to try them when you visit Japan!
Additionally, Payke offers coupons for select drugstores and Don Quijote locations, allowing you to purchase these products at a discounted price. Be sure to take advantage of these deals!